Ward 32 councillor Bongani Nkomo recently spoke about the challenges faced in his ward the past year.
Nkomo said it has been an extremely challenging year for service delivery and managing a coalition government has been a contributing factor in delivering both infrastructure and day-to-day services.
“Ultimately, this has made it a challenge for the DA to fully make its mark where it was needed the most.”
However, he said there have been many victories.
“Buccleuch has experienced many challenges and my role as a councillor has been to find solutions within the confines of my scope of work and powers.”
He said his role has largely been to ensure that there is collaboration between the City entities.
The most significant or pressing issues are ones that residents can not only see but those that also affect their daily lives. “One of these has been the area along the Jukskei River which has been dubbed the ‘Juckskei’ River by residents and who have been most affected by the air pollution and aesthetic condition in the form of illegal dumping and vagrants occupying this area. ”
He continued that a three-month river clean-up was also conducted by the City of Johannesburg, although ongoing efforts are essential to ensure that the area is maintained.
In addition, a site visit was conducted of the Bridge Shopping Centre through the Office of the Speaker Councillor Vasco Da Gama, which prompted him to engage with police and facilitate a stronger working relationship between themselves and Johannesburg Metro Police Department.
“I would like to announce that engagements with affected parties and the community is at an advanced stage re the construction of a raised bridge on Bridge Road. Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) are at the phase where they now need to appoint a contractor, work is scheduled to begin early next year.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the community for their patience and active citizenry, I wish residents of Buccleuch a safe and blessed festive season with their loved ones. Through my engagements, I have found the community to be very positive and helpful even in the midst of frustration and difficulty.”
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Related links – https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/191258/ward-32-councillor-shares-his-christmas-message-with-the-community/